TIVOLI — Austwell-Tivoli Elementary and Junior High are the 32 1A UIL champions for 2012.

The team competed in Tilden on Saturday, Dec. 1 and outscored all the schools present. The students and teachers worked extra hard this year to defeat powerhouse McMullen County Schools.

“The Redfish have been nibbling at the Cowboy’s heels for five years finally knocking them out of the saddle,” said Principal Stephen Maldonado. “It was a sweet victory for the team, teachers and the community.”

The kids came close last year to defeating the Cowboys but fell short.

“After last year’s near loss, McMullen County ISD stopped looking down their nose at little A-T,” Maldonado said. “The teachers provided excellent guidance and inspired kids to excel. We even had Saturday practice at the junior high level. We are very proud of our 2012 championship team.”

The UIL winners by grade and points at the elementary school includes second graders Zachary McClellan, storytelling and chess puzzles, 15 points; and Alejandro Ruiz, creative writing, 15 points.